A Word from the Editor
Couldn't load pickup availability
This editorial examines the Jewish blessing (*berakhah*) traditionally recited upon encountering individuals with physical disabilities or deformities, exploring its theological and ethical implications within contemporary Jewish practice. The author employs personal reflection and textual analysis to reinterpret the blessing "Barukh... meshaneh haberiyot" (Praised are You... who has created such variety among His creatures), initially perceived as insensitive and objectifying. Through examination of Mishnah Sanhedrin 4:5 and theological discourse, the analysis reframes the blessing as an affirmation of divine image inherent in all human beings despite physical differences. The methodology combines autobiographical narrative, drawing from the author's experience parenting a disabled child, with traditional Jewish textual interpretation. The study contextualizes this discussion within broader issues of Jewish institutional accessibility and inclusion during the post-war period. Key findings suggest that the blessing functions not to emphasize difference but to remind observers of universal human dignity and divine creation. The author concludes that Jewish communities have historically excluded disabled individuals but demonstrates emerging progress through programs like Camp Ramah's Tikva initiative and improved synagogue accessibility, while acknowledging substantial work remains to achieve truly inclusive religious spaces.

More Information
-
Physical Description
-
Publication Information
Published 1983
ISBN
-
Publication Credits
Harold Kushner